Student Handbook

Our Mission

To provide accessible, high-quality workforce training and career development programs that empower individuals to achieve economic self-sufficiency and contribute to their communities.

Our Values

• Access: Remove barriers to education
• Quality: Industry-recognized training
• Support: Wraparound services for success
• Integrity: Ethical and transparent operations
• Community: Building stronger communities

Attendance Policy

Regular attendance is essential for success. Students must maintain:

• Minimum 80% attendance for all courses
• Notify instructor of absences in advance when possible
• Make up missed work within one week
• Excessive absences may result in dismissal

Grading Policy

Minimum passing grade: C (70%)

Academic Integrity

Academic honesty is expected. Violations include:

• Plagiarism or cheating
• Unauthorized collaboration
• Falsifying records
• Using unauthorized materials during assessments

Consequences: First offense - warning; Second offense - course failure; Third offense - dismissal from program.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

Students must maintain:

• Minimum 2.0 GPA (C average)
• Complete 67% of attempted coursework
• Progress toward completion within 150% of program length

SAP is reviewed at the end of each term. Students not meeting SAP may be placed on academic probation or dismissed.

Makeup Work Policy

Students who miss class due to excused absences may make up missed work:

• Request makeup work within 24 hours of return
• Complete makeup work within one week of absence
• Makeup exams must be scheduled with instructor
• Late work may receive reduced credit (10% per day)
• Excused absences: illness, family emergency, court appearance, military duty

Unexcused absences: Makeup work may not be accepted. Contact your instructor immediately.

Attendance Tracking

Attendance is tracked daily for all students:

• Sign in/out required for each class session
• Tardiness (15+ minutes late) counts as 0.5 absence
• Early departure (15+ minutes early) counts as 0.5 absence
• 3 tardies = 1 absence
• Attendance warnings issued at 10%, 15%, and 20% absence rate

Excessive Absences: Students exceeding 20% absence rate may be dismissed from the program.

Expected Behavior

• Treat all individuals with respect and dignity
• Arrive on time and prepared for class
• Follow safety protocols and procedures
• Use technology appropriately
• Maintain professional appearance
• Respect property and facilities

Prohibited Conduct

• Harassment, discrimination, or bullying
• Violence or threats of violence
• Possession of weapons or illegal substances
• Theft or vandalism
• Disruption of educational activities
• Academic dishonesty

Disciplinary Actions

Violations may result in: verbal warning, written warning, probation, suspension, or dismissal. Serious violations may result in immediate dismissal and law enforcement notification.

Your Rights Under FERPA

• Inspect and Review: You have the right to inspect and review your education records within 45 days of request.
• Request Amendment: You may request correction of records you believe are inaccurate or misleading.
• Consent to Disclosure: Your written consent is required before we disclose your records (with certain exceptions).
• File Complaint: You may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if you believe your rights have been violated.

How to Access Your Records

Submit a written request to the Registrar's Office. Records will be available within 45 days. Contact: registrar@elevateforhumanity.org

Directory Information

We may disclose "directory information" without consent unless you opt out. Directory information includes:

• Name, address, phone number, email
• Program of study, enrollment status
• Dates of attendance, degrees/certificates earned

To opt out, submit a written request to the Registrar's Office.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition varies by program. All costs are disclosed in the enrollment agreement before enrollment.

• Tuition includes all required materials and supplies
• Registration fee: Non-refundable
• Payment plans available
• Financial aid accepted (WIOA, WRG, JRI)

Payment Options

• Full payment at enrollment (5% discount)
• Monthly payment plans (no interest)
• WIOA funding (100% covered)
• Workforce Ready Grant
• Justice Reinvestment Initiative

Cancellation Before Start Date

Students who cancel enrollment before the program start date receive a full refund of all tuition and fees paid, minus the non-refundable registration fee ($100).

Withdrawal After Start Date

Refunds are calculated based on the percentage of program completed:

Refund Processing

• Refunds processed within 30 days of withdrawal
• Refunds issued to original payment method
• Financial aid refunds returned to funding source
• Registration fee is non-refundable

Dismissal for Non-Payment

Students dismissed for non-payment are not eligible for refunds. Outstanding balances must be paid before transcripts or certificates are released.

Voluntary Withdrawal

Students may withdraw from a program at any time by:

1. Completing a withdrawal form (available at Student Services or online)
2. Meeting with an academic advisor to discuss options
3. Returning all school property (books, equipment, ID card)
4. Settling any outstanding financial obligations

Effective Date: Withdrawal is effective on the date the form is submitted or the last date of attendance, whichever is later.

Administrative Withdrawal

The school may administratively withdraw students for:

• Excessive absences (over 20% of program hours)
• Failure to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress
• Non-payment of tuition and fees
• Violation of code of conduct
• Failure to return from leave of absence

Students will receive written notice before administrative withdrawal and have the right to appeal.

Leave of Absence

Students may request a leave of absence for medical, family, or military reasons:

• Maximum 180 days per 12-month period
• Written request required with documentation
• Must be in good academic standing
• Return date must be specified
• Failure to return results in withdrawal

Re-Entry After Withdrawal

Students who withdraw may apply for re-entry within 12 months. Re-entry is subject to:

• Space availability in the program
• Resolution of previous academic or financial issues
• Meeting with academic advisor
• Updated enrollment agreement
• Payment of any outstanding balances

Emergency Procedures

• Fire: Evacuate immediately using nearest exit. Assemble at designated area.
• Medical Emergency: Call 911. Notify staff immediately.
• Severe Weather: Move to interior rooms away from windows.
• Active Threat: Run, Hide, Fight. Call 911 when safe.

Safety Protocols

• Wear required safety equipment in labs/workshops
• Report safety hazards immediately
• Follow equipment operating procedures
• Keep emergency exits clear
• Know location of fire extinguishers and first aid kits

Security

• ID badges must be worn at all times
• Report suspicious activity to staff
• Do not prop open security doors
• Secure personal belongings
• Visitors must check in at front desk

Informal Resolution

Students are encouraged to first attempt informal resolution by discussing concerns directly with the instructor or staff member involved. Most issues can be resolved at this level.

Formal Complaint Process

If informal resolution is unsuccessful:

1. Submit Written Complaint: Complete grievance form (available at Student Services or online) within 30 days of incident. Include date, description, and desired resolution.
2. Investigation: Complaint will be investigated within 5 business days. Both parties may be interviewed.
3. Resolution Meeting: Meeting scheduled with student, involved parties, and administrator to discuss findings and resolution.
4. Written Decision: Decision issued in writing within 10 business days of complaint submission.

Appeal Process

Students may appeal the decision to the Executive Director within 10 business days. The Executive Director's decision is final.

External Complaints

Students may also file complaints with external agencies:

Non-Retaliation

The school prohibits retaliation against students who file complaints in good faith. Any retaliation should be reported immediately to the Executive Director.

Requirements for Graduation

To graduate, students must:

• Complete all required coursework with minimum C grade (70%)
• Achieve minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
• Complete all required clock hours
• Pass all required assessments and certifications
• Maintain satisfactory attendance (80%+)
• Fulfill all financial obligations
• Return all school property

Graduation Ceremony

Graduation ceremonies are held quarterly. Graduates receive a certificate of completion and are recognized for their achievements. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

Transcripts

Official transcripts are available upon request. The first transcript is free; additional copies are $10 each. Transcripts are not released if financial obligations are outstanding.